IMPACT OF DIGITAL TECHNOLOGY ON HEALTH AND SOCIAL WELL-BEING OF DIGITAL NATIVES

Abstract

Purpose of the study: The purpose of this research article is to explore how engagement with digital tools affects the health and social well-being of digital natives. The study aims to look into the facts that how youth are getting benefits from this digitalization and how it is also increasing their exposure to the associated health risks. Methodology: The qualitative research is conducted in three selected universities of Islamabad. Through a closed-ended questionnaire, demographic data about the activities of the youth on digital technology was collected. In-depth interviews, focus group discussions and participant observation were the core techniques used in the research. Main Findings: Digital natives have improved awareness about health issues and actively educating the digital immigrants to access knowledge about treatments on various health issues at the local and global levels. The research shows that digital youth do realize that these technologies are leaving some bad effects on their health and well-being yet have not been able to get rid of them because their daily life activities are dependent on these tools. Applications of this study: The study will be of great significance for the policymakers, who are handling the rising health issues due to digitalization impact in the society. It will be an addition to the knowledge in the disciplines of Public health, Anthropology, and Psychology besides the medical sector. Data will be used to address the health issues in the coming days by the medical professionals and social scientists. Novelty/Originality of this study: This study has generated the information about the impact of digitalization on youth’s health by using the emic approach. Digital technology has taken up the role of socialization agent for the digital natives. So it is very important to listen to the youth's voices rather than assuming what is best for them. This study is novel in the sense that it is reflecting youth and how they perceive the digital technology as a beneficial tool and how it risks their life in many ways.